Thursday, August 26, 2010

Prime Rib

Jokingly, Tiff and I would like to rename this route Loose Rib. Located on the sweeping Goat Wall just NW of Mazama, Prime Rib climbs, hikes, climbs, hikes, climbs 11 pitches of moderate sport climbing on slabby metamorphic rock to top of its namesake rib like feature. Though we found the climbing nothing to write home about, the views were outstanding, and the weather couldn't have been more perfect. Though temps climaxed in the upper 80's, there was a refreshing and palliating breeze keeping us cool most of the day. Flippy flops: I would definitely recommend bringing something to slip on the feet aside from rock boots for the many mini-hikes that this ascent requires. Both of our toes were hamburger at days end; and I can't remember the last time it felt Sooooooo good to have my hiking shoes back on. Here are some shots to remember Loose Rib.

Kaukulators!

One of the many mini-hikes!

Tiffany is a rappelling machine. Though she hadn't done this in over a year she just made it look easy!

This self portrait was inspired by my feet which at this point were in a state of self denial.

Serene views of the Methow from Prime Rib. And below are some shots from an afternoon climbing at the Fire Wall. It was nice to sport climb on steeper rock after a two week hiatus. After finishing the Wide World of Fitness at Little Si I just couldn't care less about trying hard. But, after two weeks of relative reprieve I was ready for some fitness climbing. After warming up on a short 11, I gave an onsight go at Urban Refugee 12.d. It climbs just to the left of The 8th Rule and tackles steep 11ish climbing to a midway break, and then finishes on crimpy face peppered with the occasional water pocket. After hanging out for 40 minutes I came off at the last hard move. Shortly thereafter I picked up the shattered pieces of my broken heart and finished it next go. It was much easier after some recon.

Lastly, I gave an attempt at the blue steak project with heads up Firestarter (12c) before arcing up a majestic blue water streak. It was only headed up to 'check out' the moves... unfortunately, I made a huge deadpoint to a left hand pinch...crossed right hand, foot slipped, and the right hold just blasted its way into my middle finger.

Done! On the positive side, it was only superficial. But, with a huge gaper it will be another week before I'm climbing again. This picture doesn't quite do it justice. My finger was a virtual fire hydrant of blood.

Tiff obviously enjoying her newfound time off. Ahh, the life of leisure.

Our friend Gordy Skoog showing his garden whose boss! The gumption, the tenacity, the raw determination! Not exactly sure what he is doing here. But, it looked intense.